Surgical Therapy
Summary
Performing dermatological procedures in children requires patience, excellent communication skills, a knowledge of child development and a solid foundation in executing dermatological procedures. Many minor procedures can be performed with the aid of distraction and, if needed, local anaesthesia may be employed. General anaesthesia should be reserved for situations when the age of the child, the anatomical location or the extent of the surgery makes local anaesthesia inappropriate. Common indications for procedures include verruca vulgaris, congenital and acquired melanocytic naevi, naevus sebaceus, pilomatricomas, pyogenic granuloma, infantile haemangioma and epidermal naevi. A detailed knowledge of anatomy and proper surgical technique allow for a superior result and are crucial for minimizing the likelihood of postoperative complications.